In an event that underlined the significance of expertise in handling child abuse cases, Chief Deputy Prosecutor Aimee Herring showcased her specialized knowledge at the Indiana Child Advocacy Center Coalition Summer 2025 ChildFirst Forensic Interview Training. The session, hosted in Michigan City, Indiana, witnessed Herring imparting her profound understanding of the ChildFirst Protocol to an assembly of law enforcement professionals.
The protocol, which is employed by 839 counties across 21 states, offers a structured approach to interviewing child victims of abuse that stands on a foundation of legal and psychological research. Herring, an experienced regional trainer in forensic interviewing, navigated the participants through complexities relating to courtroom testimony, collaboration with expert witnesses, and preparation of children for court appearances. According to a Facebook post by the Hancock County Prosecutor’s Office, Herring's acumen in child developmental psychology and the legalities of child abuse cases was instrumental in equipping the trainees with enhanced, trauma-informed skill sets.
The significance of Herring's contribution is reflected in the figures revealed by one of the participating organizations. Katie Molinder, executive director of Zoey's Place which operates in east-central Indiana, highlighted the organization's extensive association with the Hancock County Prosecutor’s Office, "Zoey’s Place partnered with the Hancock County Prosecutor’s Office for 197 separate interviews of children last year, it is very difficult work.” Molinder underscored the indispensable nature of Herring's expertise for their function, emphasizing its role in adequately serving Hancock County.
The importance of proper training in this delicate area of law enforcement cannot be overstated, and Hancock County Prosecutor Brent Eaton is cognizant of this fact. In acknowledging Herring's contribution to the field, Eaton was quoted, "I believe that Chief Deputy Herring is the very best at working with children that are victims of abuse and neglect. We are fortunate to have someone with her ability and work ethic in our community." Eaton further lauded Herring's willingness to share her expertise to enhance the safety of the state's youth and, recognize her as a crucial educator for forensic interviewers throughout the region.
Through her instruction at the ChildFirst Forensic Interview Training, Herring continues to bolster the standards for child advocacy statewide, and her role remains a testament to the importance of specialized training in the journey towards justice for the youngest and most vulnerable among us.
